Future Governance of the United Kingdom

On 18 May 2021, the House of Lords published written evidence submitted by Baroness Helena Kennedy and Aarif Abraham to the Inquiry into Future Governance of the UK.

The submission by Baroness Kennedy and Abraham, to the Lord's Constitution Committee, focused on putting in place a process for constitutional reform in Britain which is inclusive, participatory and deliberative. They argued that without such a process various existential risks to the Union will remain and contestation and polarisation over key constitutional issues will be exacerbated including on issues related to: human rights, devolution, judicial power, parliamentary scrutiny, and executive power. A participatory process they argue, however, will help nurture and cultivate the democratic political culture of the people and allow an inclusive means to address largely elite-led polarisation.

The contribution of Abraham reflects the work that went into drafting the forthcoming 'A Constitution of the People' which will be published on 31 May 2021. Baroness Kennedy's contribution reflects her long standing work on constitutional issues as a barrister, broadcaster and member of the Lords.

The Committee will invite some witnesses to give oral evidence in May-June 2021 and present its findings to the House later in 2021.

The submission can be downloaded in a type-set pdf below or can also be read directly in simple text on the Committee's website as a pdf or in html.

The Committee’s website on the Inquiry into the Future Governance of the UK can be found here.